Disability Services Appeal Process

If a student has been denied a disability determination or accommodation request, or if an accommodation approved by the Disability Services Office (DSO) has been denied by a staff, faculty or department, they have the right to appeal such decisions. The appeal process involves three levels.

Level 1: Informal appeal

The student is asked to meet with the DSO to review the denial. This meeting should be scheduled in a timely manner and no later than one week from the denial. The DSO may recommend that the student first discuss the grievance/concern with the individuals or department denying the request. If this does not resolve the issue, the DSO will assist the student in moving to the next level of appeal.

Level 2: Written appeal to the Assistant to the Academic Dean (AAD)

The written appeal should include a clear description of the reasons for the appeal and any supporting information. The AAD will then initiate a process to review this appeal and solicit information from affected faculty and staff. At the AAD’s discretion, a meeting may be called to review the appeal. This meeting would minimally involve the student and the Dean and could also include affected faculty, staff and/or a harassment discrimination contact. The AAD will be responsible for generating a written decision within 30 days of receipt of the written appeal or within 15 days of the personal meeting, whichever comes first.

Level 3: Appeal to the Office of Civil Rights (OCR)

Should the student disagree with the decision of the AAD, they have the right to file an appeal with the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). To file a complaint fill out the electronic form that can be found www.ada.gov/complaint/